Consumers beware – fake antivirus


Tips to avoid getting scammed on the web

Browsing the web comes with its risks and there isn’t a day that we don’t hear about someone who got scammed or infected with malware. From compromised websites to malvertising, cyber criminals are out to make some money using whatever trick they can. Here are on some tips on safe browsing:

  • Many websites will display some kind of popup related to notifications, never accept those
  • Do not engage with any warning about your computer being infected, specifically never call any number you see posted
  • Protect yourself from hacked websites and malicious ads. Use antivirus, check out the Malwarebytes Endpoint Protection that we offer, and use an Ad blocker we recommend uBlock origin for all your browsers

Fake McAfee Antivirus scam

Fake Apple Tech Support scam

Fake Microsoft Tech Support scam

There are other scams going on like the Microsoft Tech Support scam as well.  Be on the look out for these scams and other malware impersonating legitimate companies.  Watch out for images like the ones below, if you get something like this turn off your computer immediately and run a full virus scan.

Fake Apple Security scam

Fake Windows blocked scam

After its too late

We have helped many businesses and individuals after a compromise.  These criminals tend to put back doors, and trojans into compromised systems so that they can return and do more damage later.  Make sure to disinfect your system.

  • Sometimes a clean install is the best defense after a compromised system is detected
  • Make sure to get some offline backups after a compromise as soon as possible
  • When in doubt seek a professional to review your system